Jawahar Dweep Becomes India’s First Plastic-Free Oil Terminal at Mumbai Port

Mumbai Port Authority has declared the Jawahar Dweep Marine Oil Terminal plastic-free, making it India’s first oil terminal to achieve the status.

The declaration was made during Swachhata Abhiyan 2026 at Grey Gate, Indira Dock, Mumbai, on October 2, 2026. Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal led the programme, which also marked the birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi.

Plastic Reduction Extended to a Major Oil Terminal

Jawahar Dweep is one of Mumbai Port’s key marine oil terminals. Its plastic-free status forms part of the port authority’s wider effort to reduce single-use plastic across operational areas.

Mumbai Port Authority said similar measures would continue across docks, residential colonies and coastal areas. The initiative combines waste reduction with day-to-day port management rather than treating cleanliness as a standalone activity.

Sonowal said the milestone demonstrated that port expansion and environmental responsibility could progress together. He also linked the initiative with the broader objectives of the Swachh Bharat Mission.

Safai Karmis Honoured for Their Contribution

The programme included a Swachhata Pledge, a floral tribute to Mahatma Gandhi and the screening of a short film on Mumbai Port’s cleanliness initiatives.

Sanitation workers were felicitated for their contribution to maintaining the port’s operational areas. Sonowal also interacted with Safai Karmis and spoke with them about their work and experiences.

The recognition placed employee participation at the centre of the port’s cleanliness and waste-management efforts.

Oil Spill Response Facilities Dedicated to the Nation

During the event, Sonowal also dedicated Mumbai Port’s Oil Spill Response facilities to the nation.

Oil spill response capability is particularly important at terminals handling petroleum products, where rapid containment and recovery systems are essential for reducing environmental damage in the event of an incident.

The addition of dedicated response infrastructure complements the port’s broader sustainability measures by strengthening preparedness for marine pollution risks.

Cleanliness Drive Covers Port and Coastal Areas

The programme concluded with a cleanliness drive across multiple port locations.

Activities covered the area south of 18ID, the Oil Spill Response facilities, BPX North Area, a mooring staff facility and a sea-cleaning exercise. The drive demonstrated how waste management, coastal cleanliness and operational maintenance are being integrated across the port estate.

Sustainability Becomes Part of Mumbai Port Operations

Mumbai Port Authority Chairperson Dr. M. Angamuthu said Swachhata Abhiyan provided an opportunity to recognise the contribution of sanitation workers while reaffirming the port’s commitment to responsible operations.

The Jawahar Dweep milestone adds a new environmental benchmark for India’s port sector. By combining plastic reduction, coastal cleanliness, employee participation and stronger oil-spill preparedness, Mumbai Port is embedding sustainability more directly into everyday maritime operations.

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References

Press Information Bureau, Government of India — Mumbai’s Jawahar Dweep Becomes India’s First Plastic-free Oil Terminal, published October 2, 2026.

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